Sel Santal Clean 2016

Sel Santal has often been compared to Santal 33, but I wouldn't call it a direct dupe. Rather, both fragrances are variations on the same theme, even though they are very different in their execution.

The opening features the citrus note of bergamot, followed by very green, fresh fig and
intense light sandalwood in the dry down. All in all, I find Sel Santal to be somewhat more classically masculine than Santal 33; it also comes across as a bit more refined and shower gel-like. If Santal 33 is marketed with the Marlboro Man, then the man for Sel Santal has swapped his leather jacket for a linen shirt and suede loafers, sitting on the beach with a glass of Aperol after a successful business deal.

The bottle is very minimalist, but somewhat bulky and heavy. The longevity of the sandalwood note is a good 4-5 hours, but as a fresh scent, it radiates less and less over time.

All in all, I see Sel Santal more on men; however, due to the fresh notes and the sandalwood base, it is definitely suitable as a niche fragrance for beginners.